Thursday, September 24, 2009

Top Mississippi Recruits

Mississippi

Quarterbacks
•••+ Dominique Sullivan 6-4, 185, 4.74 Taylorsville
He improved by leaps and bounds during the '08 season and big things are expected of Dom this year.
On Film–He is a very accurate passer with a big-time arm, he can make all the throws, he throws a nice catchable ball, is very accurate in short to medium range passes, and makes good decisions. He is a competitive ball player and a leader on the field. He threw 7 TD passes in the 2008 district title game. He is very cool under pressure.
Stats–He completed 161 of 257 passes for 2,936 and 33 TDs and was picked off just 4 times.
Other Sports–He averages 16 pts and 11 rebounds a game as an FW in basketball.
Grades–His GPA is 2.5. Benches 215.
Favorite Schools–SOUTHERN MISS, AL, OLE MISS, MS STATE, LOUISVILLE, LA TECH, LSU, and AUBURN.

••• Witt Haggard 6-2, 182, 4.7 Meridian Lamar School
He is still a relative unknown, most schools don't know about him. I was lucky enough to meet Witt and watch him on film and came away exceptionally impressed.
On Film–He shows excellent arm strength, mobility, and most of all, production. He puts the ball on the money just about every time, he is a coach on the field, does a good job of throwing the ball while on the run, but is very comfortable in a pro-style offense.
Stats–He completed 221 of 362 passes for 3,569 yds, 31 TDs, and was picked off 10 times.
Other Sports–He throws an 88 MPH fastball in baseball.
Grades–His GPA is 3.7 and he scored a 23 on the ACT.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, SOUTHERN MISS, DUKE, and MS STATE.

••• Dylan Favre 6-0, 185, 4.6 Bay St. Louis St. Stanislaus
Brett's nephew definitely ranks as one of the top QB prospects in the state. It is stretching it to say he is 6', but it is not stretching to say this young man is very talented.
On Film–He does everything asked of him, he rarely gets a pass batted down, and throws well while on the run but can also throw effectively in the pocket. He shows the arm strength to throw the deep out with authority, and certainly has what it takes to become a Division I prospect.
Stats–Last season he earned All-State honors after throwing for 3,092 yds and 36 TDs.
Grades–His GPA is over a 3.0.
Favorite Schools–SOUTHERN MISS, AL, FL, AUBURN, TX TECH, and OLE MISS.

••• Michael Young 6-2, 190, 4.5 Florence McLaurin
He is one of the more athletic QBs in the South.
On Film–Michael possesses all the tools needed to become a Division I QB. He is not a sprinter but he is blessed with very good speed, and is exceptionally dangerous when he decides to take off and run with the ball.
Stats–He totaled 22 TDs and over 1,000 yds rushing and 1,460 yds passing and was picked off 7 times.
Grades–His GPA is over 3.0.

••• Peyton Johnson 6-0, 180, 4.6 Madison Central
There is some doubt about his height but no doubt about his play.
On Film–This young man does the job on a very consistent basis. He plays big in big games, just check out the Olive Branch game for verification. I like the way he stands in the pocket until the last second and the way can buy time and then roll out and find open receivers. A double threat because of his quickness and smarts, he is a top-notch high school quarterback who should be able to make the transition to Division I.
Stats–He threw for 2,200 yds and 21 TDs and ran for an additional 820 yds and 14 TDs.
Grades–His GPA is 3.8 and he scored a 27 on the ACT.
Favorite Schools–MS STATE, GA TECH, OLE MISS, and SOUTHERN MISS.

••• Mark Thigpen 6-3, 200, 4.7 Jackson Calloway
A dual-threat.
On Film–He shows good foot movement, pretty good arm strength, and a lot of potential. He is not yet a finished product but scouts like his overall game.
Stats–He earned some All-League honors for his play at QB.

Running Backs
•••• Nicholas Parker 6-2, 205, 4.5 Batesville South Panola
He is a good combination of speed and strength.
On Film–Nicholas is a good-sized back who gets stronger as the game progresses. His highlight film shows his game against Apopka, Florida in which he had a 65-yard run that impressed everyone who saw it. In another game he had 242 yds and 4 TDs. He is more of a north/south runner who certainly has big-time speed, vision, balance, and strength. He never stops moving his legs and runs low to the ground. His coach, Lance Pogue, calls him a big tailback you can count on.
Stats–Last season he rushed close to 2,500 and 26 TDs on his way to earning All-State honors.
Grades–His GPA is around 2.5.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, MS STATE, TN, LSU, and SOUTHERN MISS.

•••• Jay Hughes 5-10, 180, 4.46 Hattiesburg Oak Grove
This is the most talented team in the state. They have several Division I players and that group is led by Mr. Hughes.
On Film–He shows outstanding vision, cutting ability, and surprising power. He appears to be a natural at the TB position and runs hard on every down. He keeps his pads low and can gain significant yardage after initial contact. He really came into his own the second half of last season and big things are expected of him this year. He is a quick back with outstanding cutting ability.
Stats–Last season he carried the ball 172 times for the Warriors gaining 898 yds and 17 TDs.
Other Sports–He has been timed in a 10.8 100 and a 22.5 200 meters in track.
Grades–His GPA is 2.8 and he scored a 19 on the ACT. Benches 260.
Favorite Schools–DUKE, VANDY, FL, AUBURN, TN, MS STATE, OLE MISS, WV, and SOUTHERN MISS.

•••• Nicholas Griffin 6-0, 200, 4.5 New Augusta Perry Central
I gave Nick four stars based on his performance last season. This young man still may be traveling a little under the radar, but believe me, he can play the game.
On Film–He is a big, fast, strong, and smart back. He has good cutting ability, vision, and strength. He runs through arm tackles and once he gets a half step on the defender it is all over. He can be an elusive back at times but prefers to run over defenders.
Stats–He carried the ball 95 times for 800 yds and 9 TDs last season averaging over 8 yds per carry. He also totaled 82 tackles, 9 tackles for losses, 4 picks, and 3 passes batted down at FS.
Other Sports–He has been timed in a 10.9 100 meters and long jumped 22' 7" in track. He averages 10 pts and 10 rebounds as a guard in basketball.
Grades–His GPA is 3.3 and he scored a 22 on the ACT. Benches 325.
Favorite Schools–SOUTHERN MISS, MS STATE, STANFORD, VANDY, AL, and OLE MISS.

••• Matt Wells 6-0, 190, 4.5 Monticello Lawrence County
Here is a high school back that has been recruited at both the TB and DB positions.
On Film–He really impresses you with his all-around game, he can catch, run, and even block, and is a rare asset in the high school ranks. I was also impressed with his ability to run past most high school defenders. He shows quick feet, change of direction, and strength to become a go-to guy at the next level. He is exceptionally quick with great vision. He also shows a smooth backpedal and very good range on defense.
Stats–Last season he earned 1st Team All-District honors after averaging over 7 yds per carry and totaled 40 tackles on defense.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.5.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, MISS STATE, SOUTHERN MISS, AUBURN, and AL.

••• LaVadius Lyles 5-10, 175, 4.5 Forest
He is a small but explosive back.
On Film–He shows quick darting moves, balance, and the vision of a big-time back. He needs to get bigger and stronger, but certainly shows the running instinct the college scouts are looking for.
Stats–He earned some All-League honors for his play at QB, RB, and DB.
Other Sports–He averages 18 pts and 5 rebounds a game as a guard in basketball.
Grades–His GPA is 3.1 and he scored a 19 on the ACT.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, AL, SOUTHERN MISS, MS STATE, and AUBURN.

••• DeShaun McGaughy 5-10, 185, 4.5 Fulton Itawamba
He is certainly a ball player to keep an eye on.
On Film–DeShaun combines great speed with excellent strength. He is more of a north/south runner and is a load to bring down. He doesn't shy away from contact and he gets a significant amount of his yards after contact.
Stats–He rushed for 1,586 yds and 21 TDs.
Grades–His GPA is over 3.0. He is the state power lifting champ.

Other Running Backs to Watch:
Donatello Luckett 6-0, 210, 4.6 Sandhill Pisgah
Keon McGaughy 6-1, 210, 4.6 Shannon
Terrance Dentry 5-9, 180, 4.4 Columbus New Hope
Keyshun Shipp 5-11, 215, 4.6 Olive Branch

Wide Receivers
•••• Robert Johnson 6-1, 196, 4.5 Hattiesburg Oak Grove
He is the #1 WR prospect in Mississippi. Robert, otherwise known as Firebird, stood out at the U.S. Army combine in January down in San Antonio.
On Film–He is a red-zone weapon, a possession receiver who can make plays, break tackles, and avoid jams at the line. He shows good field vision and the ability to create after the catch. He is more of a Marvin Harrison type of receiver. When there is a jump ball you can be assured that Firebird will come down with it. Area coaches compared him to Roy Williams and the comparison is legit.
Stats–He caught 48 passes for 632 yds and 4 TDs and also carried the ball 31 times for 276 yds and 4 scores. His highlight film shows the game against George County in which he scored the game-winning TD with 30 seconds left to play.
Grades–His GPA is 3.0. Benches 265 and has a 32" VJ.
Favorite Schools–His second cousin, Darell Terell, played ball at Missouri and now with the Cleveland Browns. His favorite schools are FSU, OLE MISS, SOUTHERN MISS, AUBURN, WV, KY, and MS STATE.

•••• Steven McNair, Jr. 6-1, 195, 4.55 Hattiesburg Oak Grove
This school certainly has a good member of prospects and Steven has become a big name mainly because his father, who is the former all-pro QB, by the same name.
On Film–He shows athleticism after the catch. He is not as reliable as Robert Johnson, but he is still a big-time prospect. He can go get the ball like no ones business, does a real good job of catching the ball over his shoulder, and can create after the catch. He is a technically sound WR with good balance and body control.
Stats–He averaged 15 yds per catch in '08.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.5.
Favorite Schools–LSU, SOUTHERN MISS, MS STATE, OLE MISS, AUBURN, AL, and WV.

••• Markese Triplett 6-4, 200, 4.6 Louisville
He is a tall and athletic receiver with a lot of natural ability.
On Film–He proves to be an aggressive ball hawk and a good leaper with excellent timing. He catches the ball at its highest point, and he runs well although he is more of a red-zone receiver.
Stats–He earned All-League honors for his play at WR.
Favorite Schools–MISS STATE, TN, SOUTHERN MISS, and AL.

••• Raymond Spivery 6-1, 185, 4.4 Lucedale George County
I met RJ when I was down in Hattiesburg and I came away impressed with his highlight film at the QB, WR, and FS positions.
On Film–RJ proves to be an exceptionally good runner at the QB position showing big-time speed, movement skills, and burst. He played only a little bit at WR but showed strong hands and proved to be an exciting player in the open field. He caught one screen pass that went for 97 yards.
Stats–He carried the ball 200 times for 1,018 yds and 14 TDs and threw for 480 yds and 4 scores.
Other Sports–He is a standout in basketball averaging 20 pts per game at guard.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.0. Benches 295.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, AL, SOUTHERN MISS, MS STATE, FL, AR, and AUBURN.

••• Chavez Sims 6-2, 206, 4.6 Taylorsville Mize
He is a very productive WR.
On Film–He runs good routes. He shows good hands, deceptive speed, and the ability to go up and catch the ball at its highest point. If you want to talk about a ball player that gets the job done, look no further than Vez.
Stats–He caught 65 passes for 1,313 yds and 14 TDs averaging 19 yds per catch on his way to earning All-State mention.
Grades–His GPA is 2.8 and he scored an 18 on the ACT.

••• Charles Bidgood 6-3, 195, 4.6 Meridian Lamar
He is certainly someone for the Division I schools to take a look at.
On Film–He presents good size, strength, and the ability to avoid tackles. He is a go-to receiver that runs precise routes, knows how to get open, and he can catch the ball in traffic.
Stats–He caught 43 passes for 995 yds and 19 TDs in '08.
Grades–His GPA is a perfect 4.0 and he scored a 26 on the ACT. Benches 220.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, SOUTHERN MISS, AK, and MS STATE.

••• Boomer Scarborough 6-2, 240, 4.7 Bay St. Louis St. Stanislaus
He is kind of a tweener, a cross between a WR and a TE.
On Film–In '08 he played WR and he played it well. He showed surprising quickness, strong hands, and the ability to break the long one. He is more than a possession-type receiver who, if he keeps growing, could make one heck of a TE.
Stats–He caught 57 passes for 1,080 yds and 15 TDs averaging 18.9 yds per catch on his way to earning All-South Mississippi honors.

Offensive Linemen
••••+ Damian Robinson 6-7, 330, 5.6 Olive Branch
He is the #1 OL prospect in the state and is quickly becoming one of the most heavily recruited in the country.
On Film–Damian shows the potential that the college scouts are looking for in an OT, not to mention the great size. He excels as a pass blocker with very good quickness off the ball, he can stay low, and shows a good kick slide as well as zone-blocking ability. He surprises you with his body control and ability to redirect. At the prep level he is a dominating RT with tremendous leg strength. Not yet as consistent as you would like, but when you have 6-7, 330 pounder with long arms and a good attitude, his potential is unlimited. He is very quick in a limited space and he does a good job of keeping defenders in front of him.
Stats–He earned All-State mention for his play at RT. He also played some NT totaling 8 tackles and 2 sacks.
Other Sports–He has thrown the shot put over 50' in track.
Grades–His GPA is close to a 3.0. Benches 285.
Favorite Schools–TN, AL, AUBURN, AR, OLE MISS, MS STATE, NC, FSU, and SOUTHERN MISS.

•••+ Shon Coleman 6-7, 275, 5.1 Olive Branch
He is not quite as dominating as Mr. Robinson but he has quicker feet.
On Film–Exceptional footwork is what will make Mr. Coleman one of the most recruited linemen in the South. Once he gets stronger, look out. He competes hard at every play, is a natural knee bender, is very smart, and understands blocking angles. He is quick enough to dominate the second level and he is also quick enough to make up for mistakes. In the Columbus game, for instance, he had nine pancake blocks and did not allow a sack. He has the frame to weigh 320 in college.
Grades–His GPA is close to 3.0 and he scored a 17 on the SAT. Benches 275.
Favorite Schools–Committed to AUBURN.

•••+ Demarco Cox 6-8, 290, 5.4 Yazoo City
You can't teach size and this young man certainly has it. He is being recruited throughout the SEC mainly on size and potential.
On Film–He is a blaster, once he gets going there is no stopping him. He has been blessed with outstanding size and shows pretty good short-area speed. He can pull and trap and is very strong at the point of attack. He also takes good angles to his blocks. Still learning, he has great potential.
Stats–Earned some All-League honors for his play at OT.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.5
Favorite Schools–AR, AL, MISS STATE, NC STATE, OLE MISS, and MD.

••• Eric Lawson 6-7, 326, 5.7 Olive Branch
I don't believe there is another high school in the country with as many big OL prospects as Olive Branch.
On Film–He shows the power and quick feet to move people. He can slide and mirror and does a good job of keeping defenders out in front of him. He needs to become more consistent but the talent is certainly there. A good drive blocker at the OG position, he can dominate at times and shows the ability to be physical. His best game was against the state's best team, South Panola last November. He also shows great size, long arms, and the willingness to learn.
Stats–He earned some All-League mention for his play at OG.
Grades–His GPA is close to 3.0. Benches 315.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, AL, MS STATE, LSU, SOUTHERN MISS, OK STATE, MEMPHIS.

••• Ryan Hollivay 6-5, 365, 5.8 Columbus Hope
The word here is potential.
On Film–Ryan has a long way to go but you cannot overlook his size and willingness to learn. He played LT in '08 and did a pretty good job of keeping defenders out in front of him. He needs to learn to stay low on every play and once he does he could dominate. He also played some NG on defense.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.0.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, SOUTHERN MISS, MISS STATE, and UAB.

••• Cottrell Miller 6-7, 280, 5.3 Louisville
He is still another massive and potentially dominating OT from the state of Mississippi.
On Film–He shows pretty good feet for a 280 pounder. He needs to develop a mean streak but certainly shows the athletic ability to warrant Division I attention. He shows pretty good straight-ahead speed, uses his hands well, and is a quick learner.
Stats–Earned some All-League mention for his play at OT.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.5.

Defensive Linemen
•••• James Dickson 6-3, 230, 4.66 Ocean Springs
He is the brother of LSU standout, Travis Dickson.
On Film–JT shows exceptional speed, balance, long arms, strong hands, and the ability to play off blocks. He gets to full speed in a couple of steps and can chase down QBs. He shows a very good up field surge, routinely beats blockers off the ball, and is also an expert at batting down passes. He is one of the better athletes in Southern Mississippi.
Stats–Recorded 80 stops, 10 sacks, and 12 tackles for losses to go with 2 caused fumbles and 4 passes batted down in '08 on his way to earning All-State honors. He also scored 5 TDs at FB averaging 6.6 yds per carry.
Other Sports–He has thrown the discus over 140' in track.
Grades–His GPA is 3.6 and he scored a 21 on the ACT. Benches 305 and has a 34" VJ.
Favorite Schools–LSU, TN, AUBURN, OLE MISS, MS STATE, FSU, DUKE, and GA.

•••• Wes Rea 6-5, 290, 5.2 Gulfport Harrison Central
There aren't many things this young man can't do, he's an outstanding football player, baseball player, and student.
On Film–He looks to be a dominating tackle on offense and an aggressive, take-no-prisoners NG on defense. Very quick for a 290 pounder, he certainly shows the skills to remain on defense at the Division I level. If he concentrates on football I believe he has All-American potential at DT. He dominates at the high school level with his strength and quickness. A player who will not stay blocked, he plays the NG position with a chip on his shoulder, runs well laterally, and can redirect.
Stats–He totaled 65 tackles and 8 sacks on his way to earning All-State honors in '08.
Other Sports–He is a fire-balling pitcher in baseball who also batted .419 with 8 home runs and 42 RBIs.
Grades–His GPA is a perfect 4.0 and he scored a 23 on the ACT. Benches 350 and has a 28" VJ.
Favorite Schools–LSU, GA, AL, OLE MISS, FL, AR, AUBURN, MISS STATE, and FSU.

•••• Devin Clark 6-2, 256, 4.8 Batesville South Panola
Here is a young man whose motor never stops.
On Film–He proves to be an outstanding pass rusher and is very powerful with a quick first step. He played TE as a sophomore but made the transition easily to DE and he may wind up playing DT in college. He has the growth potential to weigh close to 300 pounds. He plays the game low and with the aggression needed to be a standout defender in college. He improved with every game in '08.
Stats–He recorded 65 stops, 7 sacks, 12 tackles for losses, and 2 caused fumbles last season.
Grades–His GPA is close to a 3.0. Benches 355.
Favorite Schools–FL, OLE MISS, GA, MS STATE, TN, and SOUTHERN MISS.

•••• Kaleb Eulls 6-3, 245, 4.7 Yazoo County
I believe it is a little bit below average year for talent in the state of Mississippi, except at the defensive line position, where it is well above average, and Kaleb, also known as Freak, is one of the best.
On Film–He is an impressive looking kid with quick feet, long legs, does a good job of playing off blockers, and has really improved his quickness over the past year. He shows the agility and strength to keep blockers off him and to make plays. Quickness is his #1 asset and he has the frame to weigh between 260-270 in college. A relentless pass rusher with a good attitude.
Stats–Totaled over 80 tackles and 12 sacks in '08 on his way to earning All-County honors.
Grades–His GPA is 3.3 and he scored a 16 on the ACT. Benches 300 and has a 29" VJ.
Favorite Schools–MS STATE, AL, SOUTHERN MISS, LSU, OLE MISS, TN, and GA.

•••• Carlos Thompson 6.5, 225, 4.8 Hollandale-Simmons
Still another DE who is exceptionally quick off the edge.
On Film–He looks like the prototypical DE who really blossomed during the '08 season and is now considered to be one of the top DE prospects in the state. On potential he could rank near the top, has the frame to weigh 270 in college, and shows good balance, body control, and burst. He can bend a bit off the edge and has developed into a very good pass rusher.
Stats–He recorded 108 tackles, 10 sacks, and 19 tackles for losses last season.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.5.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, MISS STATE, SOUTHERN MISS, VANDY, BAYLOR, AL, AUBURN, and LSU.

•••• Bryon Bennett 6-3, 258, 4.9 Madison Central
He is still another DE who could wind up playing DE or DT at the next level.
On Film–He has proven to be one of the best pass rushers in the state. He does everything well. He can redirect, is exceptionally quick in a limited space, is excellent in pursuit, and can also dominate against the run. He is not as fast as some of the other DE prospects but just as productive.
Stats–He totaled 72 tackles, 13 sacks, and 24 tackles for losses in '08.
Grades–His GPA is 2.5 and he scored a 17 on the ACT. Benches 315.
Favorite Schools–SOUTHERN MISS, OLE MISS, MS STATE, FL, LSU, and BAYLOR.

•••• Carlton Martin 6-2, 265, 4.8 Madison Central
He played opposite Bryon Bennett last season and more than held his own. He may not have had as productive of a year but impressed the scouts just the same.
On Film–He has proven to be an excellent pass rusher with the speed and burst to play DE in college. He shows athleticism to shoot gaps, get penetration, and apply pressure on the QB. Super strong, he combines that with very good agility and technique to can keep blockers honest. Strength is his #1 asset and he has the frame to weigh 280 in college.
Stats–He recorded 59 stops and 6 sacks in '08.
Other Sports–He has thrown the shot put over 45' in track.
Grades–His GPA is 2.5 and he scored 18 on the ACT. Benches 350.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, SOUTHERN MISS, MS STATE, TN, AL, AR, BAYLOR, and LSU.

••• Curtis Virges 6-2, 295, 5.1 West Point
Here is another standout DT who excels at stopping the run.
On Film–He gets good leverage and has the strength to hold the point of attack. He is the total package, according to his coaches. A very good athlete with good initial quickness, he gets into gaps and disrupts the offensive flow dominating with his strength and quickness.
Stats–He earned All-League and some All-State honors for his play at DT.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.5.
Favorite Schools–MISS STATE, SOUTHERN MISS, AL, UAB, and OLE MISS.

••• Dylan Holley 6-2, 270, 5.0 D'lberville
Here is still another top-notch DT or NG.
On Film–He does a great job of gaining leverage, is very aggressive, and strong. He dominates the point of attack, plays low, and can quickly change directions. He is very athletic for a 270 pounder.
Stats–He earned All-Region honors in '08.
Grades–His GPA is 3.0.
Favorite Schools–MISS STATE, SOUTHERN MISS, and OLE MISS.

••• Reggie Williams 6-2, 260, 4.7 Olive Branch
This school certainly has a good number of Division I prospects. Reggie has been somewhat forgotten because of all the great OL prospects on the team.
On Film–He shows the speed, strength, and explosiveness off the line to dominate at the DE position. He really came on strong the second half of last season, and Olive Branch coaches are singing his praises and can't wait for the '09 season.
Stats–He recorded 55 tackles, 7 sacks, and 7 tackles for losses as a junior.
Grades–His GPA is 2.9. Benches 355.
Favorite Schools–GA, FIU, OLE MISS, AL, LSU, MEMPHIS, AR, UAB, AR STATE, and SOUTHERN MISS.

••• Keland Johnson 6-1, 244, 4.7 Forest
He may not be the biggest DE around but he is certainly one of the more active ones.
On Film–#6 runs exceptionally well for a 244 pounder. He gets good leverage, shows a very good burst, and has good closing speed. For proof, just watch the state championship game against Baldwin in which he dominated from the beginning.
Stats–He recorded 112 stops, 7 sacks, 30 tackles for losses, and 3 caused fumbles on his way to earning All-State mention. He is related to Auburn's Robert Meeks who also played with the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills.
Other Sports–He has thrown the shot put over 43' and discus 137'.
Grades–His GPA is around 2.5 and he scored a 15 on the ACT. Benches 325.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, SOUTHERN MISS, AL, GA, MS SATE, and LSU.

••• Terrence Barnes 6-0, 290, 5.0 Taylorsville Mize
Most colleges like their DTs a little taller but you will hear no complaints from the Bulldogs as #51 dominates the competition at that position.
On Film–He is super strong and no one runs on him, he shows the ability to redirect quickly and, at times, can apply pressure on the QB. Right now he is a dominating run stopper who has improved his pass rushing ability.
Stats–He recorded 49 tackles, 3 sacks, and 30 tackles for losses on his way to earning All-League honors.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.0. Benches 410.
Favorite Schools–SOUTHERN MISS, MISS STATE, OLE MISS, and WI.

Linebackers
•••• Taurice King 6-3, 230, 4.7 Yazoo City
He is a highly-productive ILB who ranks as the #1 LB prospect in the state of Mississippi.
On Film–He does a good job of playing off blocks and getting to the ball. He is a leader on the field and dominated from the first game to the last in both '07 and '08. A football player who loves to play the game and it shows, he shows good lateral speed, and gets to the perimeter in a hurry. He stays low and explodes into ball carriers.
Stats–He led the state in tackles as a soph with over 100 tackles in '08.
Grades–His GPA is 3.0.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, SOUTHERN MISS, MISS STATE, and LA TECH.

••• Brandon Timmons 6-3, 245, 4.65 Olive Branch
Still another Division I prospect at Olive Branch.
On Film–#90 makes things happen. Last season he played ILB, OLB, and DE showing good speed when in pursuit, and a nose for the ball. He had nine tackles and a sack in the Starkville game. He goes to the football well, shows speed, and can play multiple defensive positions.
Stats–He totaled 52 tackles, 2 sacks, and 3 caused fumbles in '08.
Grades–His GPA is 3.3 and he scored a 16 on the ACT. Benches 315.
Favorite Schools–His father played RB at Oklahoma State. His favorite schools are AR, TN, OLE MISS, AL, UCLA, and AUBURN.

••• Tyrece McDonald 5-11, 205, 4.6 Madison Central
He is a bit undersized at the ILB position but on film this guy makes plays.
On Film–He runs to the ball well, shows good speed, strength, and plays the game on his feet. He also shows enough quickness to beat the backs to the perimeter and enough body control, balance and strong hands to play off blocks and stuff the run.
Stats–He recorded 88 stops, 4 sacks, and 6 tackles for losses as a junior.
Grades–His GPA is 3.0 and he scored a 25 on the ACT. Benches 300.
Favorite Schools–OLE MISS, MS STATE, USM, MEMPHIS, and AK.

••• Cordell Giles 6-3, 235, 4.65 Benoit Brooks High School
You got to love his size, speed, and potential.
On Film–Cordell is a playmaker on both offense and defense. He is a sure-handed receiver on offense with surprising quickness. On defense, he is an aggressive ball player with a nose for the ball.
Stats–He earned All-League honors for his play in '08.
Favorite Schools–Committed to MISSISSIPPI STATE.

Other Linebackers to Watch:
Pat Black 6-1, 215, 4.6 Jackson Forest Hill
Corvelle Harrison 6-3, 230, 4.8 Laurel Northeast Jones

Defensive Backs
•••• Vincent Sanders 6-2, 183, 4.6 Noxubee County
It's tough to put JJ at one position since he has played several in '08.
On Film–#10 excelled at QB and WR on offense and FS, CB, and some LB on defense. On offense he is able to get off the line quickly, catches the ball away from his body, runs precise routes, and can turn up field in the blink of an eye. On defense, he shows great range, never gives up on a play, has a smooth backpeddle, and has proven to be a sure tackler. He saved his best game for last, he excelled at the '08 state championship game. He plays a physical game on defense, fills the hole quickly against the run, and has proven to be a punishing hitter who rarely misses a tackle. He is also very adept to man-to-man coverage. He is big, aggressive, and instinctive, he always seems to be where the ball is.
Stats–He recorded 34 solo tackles, picked off 9 passes, and batted down a league-high 22 others. On defense, he caught 25 passes for 560 yds and 8 TDs at WR. He threw for 325 yds and 5 TDs and ran for 200 yds and 5 TDs at QB.
Other Sports–He averages 18 pts and 6 rebounds a game as a shooting guard in basketball.
Grades–His GPA is 2.5.
Favorite Schools–SOUTHERN MISS, OLE MISS, MS STATE, AL, AR, and TN.

••• Michael Carr 6-1, 180, 4.5 West Point
He is the state's top CB prospect.
On Film–He shows good instincts, awareness, and has a knack for winding up where the ball is. A smooth, natural athlete, he has a good burst and good instincts. Michael breaks on the ball easily and has proven to be a big-time hitter. The key to his game is his ability to read and react quickly.
Stats–He totaled over 50 tackles on his way to earning class 4A 1st Team All-State honors in '08.
Grades–His GPA is over 2.0.
Favorite Schools–Committed to MISSISSIPPI STATE.

••• Brandon Hill 6-2, 210, 4.6 Crawford-West Lowndes
A big, physical safety who could grow into an OLB.
On Film–Brandon shows good instincts, always seems to get a great jump on the ball, covers a lot of ground, and takes very good angles to the ball. A leader on the field, he rarely takes missed steps, and can redirect quickly. A natural athlete with a bright future.
Grades–His GPA is over a 2.5.
Favorite Schools–Committed to MISSISSIPPI STATE.

••• Tavarus White 5-11, 180, 4.5 Indianola Gentry
He is one of the few players I did not see in person during this spring's travels, but I heard nothing but good things about him.
On Film–He is considered to be one of the better athletes in the state, can play QB, RB, WR, or DB. He shows good instincts on defense. He is quick to the ball with good recovery speed and is better suited to play CB at the next level.

Other Defensive Backs to Watch:
Jameon Lewis 5-9, 175, 4.4 Tylertown

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